autonomy

American  

[aw-ton-uh-mee] / ɔˈtɒn ə mi /

noun

plural

autonomies

1. independence or freedom, as of the will or one's actions.

   the autonomy of the individual.

2. the condition of being autonomous; self-government or the right of self-government.

   The rebels demanded autonomy from Spain.

3. a self-governing community.

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autonomy British  

/ ɔːˈtɒnəmɪ /

noun

1. the right or state of self-government, esp when limited

2. a state, community, or individual possessing autonomy

3. freedom to determine one's own actions, behaviour, etc

4. philosophy

   1. the doctrine that the individual human will is or ought to be governed only by its own principles and laws See also categorical imperative

   2. the state in which one's actions are autonomous

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Other Word Forms

• autonomist noun

Etymology

Origin of autonomy

First recorded in 1615–25; from Greek autonomía “independence,” equivalent to autónom(os) autonomous + -ia -y ³

Example Sentences

Beijing and Hong Kong authorities have argued that the law is necessary to maintain stability and deny it has weakened autonomy.

From BBC

His work set a precedent for autonomy and creative control as hip-hop became a commercial juggernaut in the ’90s.

From Los Angeles Times

The world's changing geopolitical and security situation has made European leaders rethink their approach to space, with added urgency, and look to establish more autonomy.

From BBC

In December, the Israeli government became the first country to recognise the independence of Somaliland since it declared its autonomy from Somalia in 1991 following a civil war.

From Barron's

In the wake of the fire and repeated county blunders, many Altadena residents have pushed for more discussion about the community’s unincorporated status, some calling for cityhood and more autonomy over its services and resources.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• freedom
• self-determination
• self-government
• self-rule
• sovereignty